The Kennedy Forum

Founded in 2013 by former Congressman Patrick J. Kennedy (D-R.I.), The Kennedy Forum leads a national dialogue on transforming mental health and addiction care in the U.S. by uniting mental health advocates, business leaders, and government agencies around a common set of principles, including full implementation of the Federal Parity Law. Launched in celebration of the 50th anniversary of President John F. Kennedy’s signing of the landmark Community Mental Health Act, the nonprofit aims to achieve health equity by advancing evidence-based practices, policies, and programming in mental health and substance use. The Kennedy Forum’s collaborative partnerships help to foster greater provider accountability, integration, and coordination; cutting-edge treatment technologies; and brain fitness and education. The website, www.thekennedyforum.org, is a repository of educational resources on parity issues, such as 'Navigating the New Frontier of Mental Health and Addiction: a Guide for the 115th Congress' – the first-ever guide for members that pinpoints and defines tangible actions necessary for change. Other Kennedy Forum Resources: Parity Registry is a website where consumers can learn to file an appeal with their health plan after being wrongfully denied coverage for mental health or addiction treatment services; send a complaint directly to state enforcement officials; access step-by-step appeals guidance; find a comprehensive listing of state and federal regulators who can help with an appeal; and review FAQs and other information to help advance an appeal. The data shared will help shape public policy and influence future legislation. www.parityregistry.org Parity Track is a website where policymakers, journalists, and consumers can track legislative, regulatory, and legal parity activities in all 50 states and at the federal level to monitor implementation and best practices. www.paritytrack.org